May Convention is here!

Wow just 4 more hours to go and I am running my first Jaycee Convention. What a nervous feeling i have knowing how much more has gone into this. I pray it goes well and that all Jaycees have the opportunity to learn and have fun!

Checklist is long: oynd, speakers, entertainment, hotel rooms, national guests and trainers, parade, competition, first timers, agenda's, awards, meals, presents, prizes, socials, and fun! Whew! What have i missed?!

Gotta run...enjoy the blog!

Get 'er Done!

Ever have the problem getting to things you said you would do? Often I find myself setting at my desk to do a task on my pc only to find myself reading email, responding, or viewing a website. Here are my tips to keep on task and get work done:

1) Know you outcome. Have a goal and complete the goal. Even simple tasks like washing the truck need a start, middle, and ending without interruption.

2)Take away the distractions. Radio, tv, ipod, cell phone can be turned off. Let your mind do the wandering - don't let other things wander it for you!

3) Give yourself time. Often i think i can accomplish all my daily goals in one hour. Not! Better time management leads to better results.

4) Do not let others control your schedule. Let others know your plans and ask politely to reschedule. Some people do everything ad-hoc and expect you to be the same. Instead set your own expectations and get others to accomodate you.

5) Allow time for a quick reward. For me this usually involves a trip to TCBY (just down the block) or a cold one from the fridge. Amen brother!

Productivity happens when you commit yourself to a task!

National Convention in Memphis

If you ever wonder "What is jaycees all about?" you need to do no more than attend a national convention. Let's run down the list

1) Leadership training - state presidents training, local officer training, district director training, and more. Pretty much a full day!
2) Diversity training - Ariel Jones is a terrific trainer who lights up the room with enthusiasm. Her training on diversity went into deep detail not only explaining why this topic is important but how to resolve conflicts which arise.
3) Mattitude - motivational speaker who presented ideas on positive attitude, achieving a high altitude of success, and taking action! I have to admit I usually dislike the *rah* *rah* motivational speakers. This was not only motivational it was educational. I left with the sense I could better motivate others using what i learned.
4) Meet with other Jaycees and exchange ideas
5) National awards given to many states, chapters, and individuals who deserve credit for their hard work
6) Competitors from our state and others especially Justin Parkinson's master speak-up winning speach!
7) Stay up late and enjoy the party!

Most of all I got the sense that the US Junior Chamber is on the right track. President Denice and her staff are working toward a simple vision:
"To become the organization of choice for young leaders who seek direction, professional growth, and community involvement."

I saw this vision realized this weekend!

Business Writing more than Passionate Debate

So I am back to blogging about jaycees. My sleep schedule after baby arrived is back to normal so I once again am capable of thought. I have been thinking about professional training for the May convention and the competitions. I would like to provide training that can help you get that next job or promotion. Jaycees is about helping build a better you!

Here's my problem - Write Up competition is often about making a case for a passionate topic. I think write-up is a great exercise but the lofty topics chosen don't translate well to the real world. The last time I wrote a passionate letter to a boss or coworker I ended up in his office having to explain what's wrong. Passion isn't a great vehicle for professional written communications.

Over on life-hack is an
article about writing a business letter that gets results. I think its closer to what I have in mind for explaining business writing. Is write-up effective as a competition? Let me know what you think.

Anna Lynn Groce is Born

Hey i know most of you have heard Amy gave birth to our daughter Anna Lynn on february 25th. You can view the website of photos at
http://www.babysites.com/sites/grocebaby/

Fargo Year-End

I wanted to quick post on what a great time I had at the Fargo Jaycee year-end baquet a week ago. I made new friends and discovered Fargo has a great mix of new young members. Congrats to Karen Burke on her year-end and Abby is going to have a terrific year too!

After the banquet there was bowling followed by a house party. I really enjoyed the Rock Band game on the xbox-360. And i schooled the young ladies playing Battle of the Sexes board game! Men rock!

New website for nationals

Wow! If you get a chance sneak a peak at the new national website
http://www.usjaycees.org/

Looks like a terrific site! If you have time take a visit - and check out the new list of training resources.
http://www.usjaycees.org/index.php?option=com_docman&task=cat_view&gid=34&Itemid=31

Handouts, slides and even instructor notes are listed on the website for download. If you want a resource for training in your chapter here's a great start. Let me know if you need a state trainer to make a visit.